Moss was entering the final year of his contract. The Bengals were reportedly open to releasing Moss while they figured out the extent of his neck injury, but NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports the team is “confident in his return.” Moss should factor in as the main backup to Chase Brown on early downs, and with his status more certain, the Bengals appear less likely to draft a running back on Thursday.

“Releasing will be an option,” Dehner believes while noting the team would free up $3.5 million in cap space if they did so. The Bengals have already brought in Samaje Perine behind Chase Brown this offseason, and if they draft a running back next weekend, it should probably be viewed as an admission that they don’t think Moss will play. Dynasty teams that have been holding on to Moss should be aware that he’s not exactly a must-roster at this point.

Moss is still expected to miss the remainder of the season because of the neck injury, but this is at least a silver lining for the veteran back. Moss avoiding surgery hopefully means he will be able to play in 2025 without any complications. He signed a two-year deal with the Bengals last offseason and could return as a steady, between-the-tackles complement to Chase Brown.

Khalil Herbert will now slot in as Chase Brown’s backup. Moss finishes the year with a 74/242/2 rushing line and caught 23 of 27 targets for 187 yards and a touchdown in his most extensive receiving work yet. It’s possible he’s back next year on a $4.9 million cap figure if the neck isn’t a longer-term concern than the next few months. If not, Moss will be a credible backup/committee option in free agency next offseason.